By Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
Cross River State Governor, Bassey Edet Otu, has announced a N50 million allocation for the construction of the Ugep Peace Stadium in Yakurr Local Government Area, as part of efforts to promote sports and youth development in the state.
The governor made the announcement during the 21st edition of the Leboku International New Yam Festival, held on Monday in Ugep, following a request by the Obol Lopon of Ugep and Traditional Ruler of Yakurr, HRM Obol Ufem Ubana.
The traditional ruler had appealed for the renovation and upgrading of the stadium, including the provision of a standby generator to enhance its effective use.
The festival, themed “Rooted in Culture, Growing in Prosperity,” attracted participants from Yakurr communities and beyond.
Represented by his Deputy, Dr Peter Odey, Governor Otu expressed gratitude for the harvest season but condemned the recent inter-communal clashes between Ugep and Idomi communities, which resulted in loss of lives.
He described the violence as a “show of shame” that dampened the celebrations, stressing that cancelling the festival would have undermined its objective of promoting peace and harmony among communities in Yakurr Nation.
Governor Otu urged traditional rulers, clan heads and other recognised community leaders to uphold peace, customs and traditions.
He warned that the state government would withdraw recognition certificates from traditional rulers whose domains experience persistent breakdown of peace.
He also said the government would not recognise parallel leadership camps in certain areas until the affected communities unite behind a single representative.
Highlighting his administration’s agricultural agenda under the Green Economic Revolution, Otu said the government was supporting smallholder farmers through revolving loans, mechanisation and tractors, alongside private-sector investments worth billions of dollars.
He listed rice value chains, fisheries, dairy and livestock development, and oil palm production among the key areas receiving attention.
Chairman of Yakurr Local Government Area, Chief Inyang Yibala Igri, welcomed guests to the festival and appealed to the communities to embrace peace, forgive past grievances and prioritise development.
He also encouraged youths to view farming as a business while urging elders to provide guidance and support.
The Obol Lopon of Ugep and Traditional Ruler of Yakurr, HRM Obol Ufem Ubana, congratulated Governor Otu on his emergence as the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate and pledged his support.
He also highlighted ongoing road and infrastructure projects, raised concerns over dual coronations in Agoi-Ibami and appealed for improved coverage of Cross River Broadcasting Corporation signals in Yakurr.
The traditional ruler expressed appreciation for the recent political appointments given to Yakurr indigenes.
In a goodwill message, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Obi Ayuk, described Leboku as a significant celebration of Yakurr culture, identity and agricultural heritage.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening the festival as a major tourism attraction and promoting the area’s cultural and natural assets, including its waterfalls.
The commissioner called for peace, hospitality and responsible conduct among residents and visitors.
